Prievidza, Slovakia

Capital City

With just 42,429 residents, Prievidza is hardly the bustling metropolis some may envision when moving to Slovakia. The population has grown "enormously" since World War II, but the city remains the 11th largest in the country. While the mountain-ringed valley location is picturesque, the continental climate brings extreme seasonal swings - the mercury hit a scorching 38.6°C last July. Navigating the local bureaucracy is also a "persistent headache" for newcomers, as evidenced by the town's history of fires and uprisings. Overall, Prievidza is a sleepy, industrial outpost best suited for those seeking a quiet, provincial lifestyle in the heart of Central Europe.